Humane society seeks owner of exotic snake found in Waterloo Region

A desert kingsnake found in Cambridge on Sept. 7, 2025. (Facebook/CDHS Found Pets)

The Cambridge & District Humane Society is looking for the owner of a desert kingsnake found over the weekend in Waterloo Region.

The animal, described as an adult, was found Sunday on Lena Crescent in Cambridge.

Officials said the snake was initially thought to be a native species but was later determined to be an exotic pet. It is currently being housed at Hobbitstee Wildlife Refuge in Nanticoke while it recovers from minor injuries.

According to the City of Cambridge’s animal control bylaws, “no person shall keep or harbour an exotic pet.” The bylaw classifies all snakes that are venomous, poisonous or greater than two metres as ‘exotic.’

Staff said the snake appeared well cared for and accustomed to being handled by humans, which suggested it was an escaped pet rather than one that had been abandoned.

“Stray animals are held for a mandatory 72-hour redemption period,” read a post online by the Cambridge & District Humane Society.

“All unclaimed animals are then assessed for adoptability after the redemption period based on their overall health and behaviour. This process can take several days to weeks to months depending on the needs of the animal. The CDHS is partnered with numerous rescue organizations to assist with animals that may not be adoption candidates within the shelter.”

Anyone who believes the snake may be theirs is asked to contact the humane society immediately.